The Policy Initiation (Pi) Institute is designed to modernize and democratize the policymaking process. 

Pi is a database of policy ideas.  We provide summaries and analysis of the proposals that shape the public policy debate.  Our mission is to highlight the spectrum of policy options available to confront continuing public problems.  Political problem-solving must begin with an understanding of potential solutions. 

Pi has three components: briefs, links and analysis.  Briefs summarize and deconstruct policy ideas that legislators, think-tanks, intellectuals and other policy professionals propose.  Links connect Pi readers to articles that highlight what commentators and other experts are saying about the specific policy idea or debate.  Analysis pieces allow Pi staffers to comment on important policy ideas. 

Pi expedites the process of political discovery without simplifying it.  We recognize that the public policy problems are dauntingly complex.  We understand the need for detailed analytical studies.  However, we do not believe that information on policy ideas should be inaccessible to citizens.  Pi’s policy briefs include abstracts and headings.  Abstracts provide the basics of a policy idea in only a few pages.  Policy headings allow users to analyze the policy’s main features and easily compare it to other policy ideas that address the same issues. 

Pi is a vehicle for civic education and participation.  Citizens and policy professionals can discover the ideas that are currently on the table and under construction while active citizens and experts can submit their own opinions and ideas for informal publication.  As a central hub for the policy debate, Pi can connect citizens’ voices for reform with professionals who can help advocate for and implement innovative proposals.  

Pi is primarily about facilitating a stronger and more open connection between citizens and the professionals who design policies that influence the public welfare.  Pi is a counterweight to the insularity that too often overwhelms the policymaking process.  Debates about the right plan to improve public health, clean our cities or strengthen our economy should involve all citizens who are willing to participate, not the voices of a few lobbyists and lawmakers.  We hope that these debates can open their doors to the public.  For a more extensive introduction to the motivations behind Pi, see “Beyond Interest Groups: A Plan for Improving Policy Discussion.”